Replacing a Single tooth

SINGLE TOOTH MISSING

Benefits of an all-ceramic crown on implant:When both the tooth and root are damaged, the best permanent replacement is a dental implant in conjunction with a ceramic crown. This solution both looks and functions just like a natural tooth.

In this case, a so-called one-piece implant is used. This means that all components are installed as a single unit, resulting in immediately full functioning teeth, shorter treatment time and minimized pain.

Immediately functioning teeth

Excellent esthetic result

Life long, stable solution

Treatment: This procedure normally includes four visits to the dentist. You should expect to be able to work the day after having the implant installed.

COURSE OF TREATMENT

The course of treatment described here is one of several options available. Consult your dentist to find out what the best solution is for you, given your specific condition.

1: Before the procedureThe dentist makes a first examination and takes one or more x-rays of the area to prepare for the procedure.

2: Installing the implantThe implant is installed. At this time, a temporary tooth is provided that allows you eat and function like normal almost immediately. The implant will need a few months to integrate with the jawbone before the next step is taken.

3: Attaching the new crownThe final step is the placement of the permanent ceramic tooth. The new tooth is installed for life. No additional treatment is needed.

4: End resultYou should expect the new tooth to fit and function just like a natural tooth. Do your usual dental hygiene to keep the tooth and gum around it clean and

ALTERNATIVES TO AN ALL-CERAMIC CROWN ON IMPLANT

Tooth-supported fixed bridgeA traditional bridge involves grinding down adjacent teeth to support the bridge. It is a stable solution with good esthetics and function that is fairly easy to install. However, this alternative has two main disadvantages: continuous bone resorbtion in the edentulous area, and sacrificing healthy teeth on behalf of the bridge.

Removable partial dentureThis is not a permanent alternative to a lost tooth. It is unstable and loosely attached, which affects both function and comfort. A removable partial denture is made of plastic â€“ a material that can't create the same esthetic result as a ceramic crown. The benefits are few but do exist: adjacent teeth aren't affected. It is easily and quickly installed and relatively cheap.

Resin-bonded bridgeThis alternative has some clear advantages: it is quickly installed, functions well and, since it is made of ceramic, it gives a high esthetic result. Moreover, natural healthy teeth aren't affected. But it is not very permanent. The resin-bonded bridge will eventually come off â€“ probably after just a couple of years â€“ and will then have to be reinstalled.

Replacing a Single Tooth

If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it.A dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root.

What are the advantages of a single tooth implant over a bridge?

A dental implant provides several advantages over other tooth replacement options.In addition to looking and functioning like a natural tooth, a dental implant replaces a single tooth without sacrificing the health of neighboring teeth.The other common treatment for the loss of a single tooth, a tooth-supported fixed bridge, requires that adjacent teeth be ground down to support the cemented bridge.

Because a dental implant will replace your tooth root, the bone is better preserved.With a bridge, some of the bone that previously surrounded the tooth begins to resorb (deteriorate).Dental implants integrate with your jawbone, helping to keep the bone healthy and intact.

In the long term, a single implant can be more esthetic and easier to keep clean than a bridge.Gums can recede around a bridge, leaving a visible defect when the metal base or collar of the bridge becomes exposed.Resorbed bone beneath the bridge can lead to an unattractive smile.And, the cement holding the bridge in place can wash out, allowing bacteria to decay the teeth that anchor the bridge.

How will the implant be placed?

First, the implant, which looks like a screw or cylinder, is placed into your jaw.Over the next two to six months, the implant and the bone are allowed to bond together to form an anchor for your artificial tooth.During this time, a temporary tooth replacement option can be worn over the implant site.

Often, a second step of the procedure is necessary to uncover the implant and attach an extension.This small metal post, called an abutment, completes the foundation on which your new tooth will be placed.Your gums will be allowed to heal for a couple of weeks following this procedure.

There are some implant systems (one-stage) that do not require this second step.These systems use an implant which already has the extension piece attached. Your periodontist will advise you on which system is best for you.